Survey shows government IT budget chasm

Only 17% of UK public sector organisations anticipate a significant IT budget increase this year, despite the fact that 79% expect to invest in new software and licences.

Almost 200 public sector organisations took part in a survey conducted by Centennial Software, which says the figures hint at a gulf between the government’s expectations and the IT needs of its users.

The survey shows 40% of organisations state that their IT budgets will remain static in the coming year, while 16% expect their spending to fall.

The public sector isn’t losing much sleep over software compliance and fines either, with only 34% ranking these as top worries for the coming year, prioritising staffing and security instead.

The survey found that 47% believed they had appropriate licences for their software.

Related article: IT spending by industry sector

Comment on this article: computer.weekly@rbi.co.uk